Des moines Car Accident Lawyer
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Hurt in a Crash in Des Moines?
Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation
At Baer Law Office, our Des Moines auto accident attorneys are aggressive, justice-focused advocates for victims and their families. We have more than three decades of experience handling personal injury claims. Hurt in a crash? Contact us at our Des Moines law office today for your free, no obligation initial consultation with a top Iowa auto accident attorney.
What to Do After a Car Crash in Des Moines
Hurt in a crash in Des Moines? It is crucial that you know what to do to protect your health, your rights, and your safety. Here are four steps that you need to take after a motor vehicle collision:
- Stop Your Car and Report the Crash: Iowa law requires all motorists in a crash to stop their vehicle and remain at the scene unless there is a medical emergency. Immediately stop your vehicle at the scene or as close as possible without obstructing traffic. Call 911 to report the accident. You can report the crash to the Des Moines Police Department.
- Get Prompt Medical Care for Any Injuries: All auto accident injuries in Des Moines should be evaluated by a doctor. Seek medical attention even if you feel fine. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent. If you do not have medical records, you cannot bring a claim.
- Carefully Document the Collision: Be sure to take photographs of the accident scene, including the vehicles involved and the road condition. You should also exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver.
- Consult With a Des Moines Attorney: Before you provide a recorded statement to an insurance company, you should consult with an experienced Des Moines auto accident attorney. Your lawyer will protect your rights and your interests.
An Overview of Auto Accident Liability in Des Moines
Similar to most U.S. states, Iowa is a fault-based motor vehicle accident jurisdiction. The party—driver or otherwise—who is at fault for the crash can be held legally responsible for the resulting damages. Fault is based on negligence, which is defined as the failure to take due care. Given the importance of fault, every crash in Des Moines requires a thorough investigation.
Under Iowa law (I.C.A. § 668.3(1)(b)), car accident liability is subject to a modified comparative fault system. If a driver is found to be partially at fault in a car accident, their ability to recover damages is reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, if a driver is deemed 30 percent at fault for a crash in Des Moines, their compensation will be reduced by 30 percent as well. However, there is a 51 percent bar on recovery in Iowa. A driver who is at fault for the majority of a crash can be denied any compensation through a personal injury claim.
We Help Car Accident Victims in Des Moines Fight for the Maximum Compensation
In Iowa, injured victims have the right to seek compensation for the full extent of their damages, including economic losses and non-economic losses. Unfortunately, you cannot rely on an insurance company to step out and willingly offer a full and fair settlement. Our Des Moines auto accident lawyer is standing by, ready to help you fight for the maximum compensation, including for:
- Vehicle repairs;
- Emergency medical care;
- Hospital bills;
- Physical therapy;
- Lost wages;
- Loss of earning power;
- Pain and suffering;
- Long-term disability; and
- Wrongful death.
Why Rely On Des Moines Car Accident Attorney Kim Baer
Traffic collision claims are complicated. You need a top-tier attorney in your corner. Kim Baer has been rated as a Best attorney in Des Moines nine years in a row. No matter your situation, we are here to help you determine the best course of action. Among other things, our Des Moines car accident lawyer will:
- Listen to your story and answer legal questions;
- Investigate your crash, gathering the evidence to prove fault;
- Advocate for your in settlement negotiations with insurers; and
- Develop a comprehensive, personalized strategy.
Car Accident Injury Claims in Des Moines:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes. If you were involved in a major crash—particularly an injured crash—it is imperative that you consult with an experienced attorney. The sooner that you speak to a Des Moines auto accident lawyer after a crash, the better position you will be in to get justice and compensation.
Two years. Under Iowa law (I.C.A. § 614.1 (2)), a two year statute of limitations applies to motor vehicle accident injury claims. Only limited exceptions exist. Be Proactive: Protect your rights by speaking to a top-tier Des Moines auto accident attorney right away after a bad accident.
In Iowa, you can recover economic damages—which include medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. You can also seek compensation for non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering and loss of quality of life. In certain limited cases, punitive damages may also be awarded.
Most car accident cases are resolved before litigation. While most car accident claims are settled out of court, whether your case goes to trial depends on a wide range of factors, including the clarity of liability and the severity of your injuries. An experienced Des Moines attorney can help.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Des Moines Car Accident Lawyer Today
At Baer Law Office, our Des Moines auto accident attorney is devoted to providing the highest level of legal advocacy for victims and families. Hurt in a bad crash? Give us a call at (515) 279-2000 or contact us online for a free, fully confidential initial case review. From our law office in Des Moines, we handle car accident injury claims in Des Moines County and throughout the wider region.